Beckham defends his captaincy

David Beckham steadfastly defended his position as England captain despite last night’s Euro 2004 quarter-final defeat to Portugal.

The Real Madrid man missed the first spot-kick in the 6-5 penalty shoot-out loss – but felt he had not lost the ability to lead Sven-Goran Eriksson’s team.

Asked if he was still as inspirational as he was, Beckham turned the tables on the reporter and asked: “Do you think I can inspire the team as I did in the past?

“I am England captain. I will not be resigning my position. I am proud to be England captain. I love to be playing football and I am England captain.

“I won’t be resigning unless someone wants me to, and that will be the manager. I believe this team can go far.”